DISCOVER THE HIDDEN GEMS OF SUMMERHILL

Toronto is a city comprised of a many unique neighbourhoods that boast individuality and a plethora of things to do. One of our favourite neighbourhoods is Summerhill, the little section between Yonge and Avenue just south of St. Clair. For such a small area in central Toronto, it packs in a lot of character from a variety of boutique shops to fantastic restaurants and bars. Here are our top 5 spots to visit next time you’re in town:

LCBO in Converted Train Station

Once a regal train station, this building is now the province’s flagship LCBO that has held on to the essence and grandeur of its predecessor. It may have all the essentials of a modern building, but the 44-foot high ceilings and original floor and light fixtures are a constant reminder of its great past, with a little history around every corner and within every room of the place.

Gee Beauty

This is the destination for modern and professional beauty care. Located at Yonge and Roxborough, they do everything from brows and facials to laser skin rejuvenation, not to mention their wide selection of beauty products and assistance in day-to-day beauty routines.

Boo Boo and Lefty

This quirkily named shop located at Yonge and Birch sells classic fine furniture from premium sofas and dining chairs to ottomans and armchairs, all customizable. They also offer a unique variety of pillows, lighting options, candles and all the perfect accessories to help you create a gorgeous and comfortable home.

Harvest Wagon

This upper-end greengrocer offers a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and a staff that is known for their high standards of quality assurance on all their products. Their prices are higher than other grocery stores in Toronto, but the quality you receive is well worth it. There is also a hot counter at the back of the store that offers a delectable selection of prepared foods like a succulent rib roast, eggplant parmiggiano, and Chilean sea bass. In short order, their expanded premises will be open to the public.

Boxcar Social

A warm and inviting two-storey former row house, borrowing part of its name from the former train bridge and old station nearby. Massive windows flood the room with natural light as you sip on your beverage of choice. Pleasant ambience and lively conversation creates the dynamic atmosphere of this trendy coffee and wine bar.

Barnsteiner’s

Since selling the popular Corner House on Davenport Road, the couple, Herbert and Michelle Barnsteiner, opened Barnsteiner’s on the corner of Balmoral and Yonge. With a newly renovated space, the diners fill the two dining rooms to enjoy a comfortable atmosphere and fine European nosh. The mixed menu boasts home-style dishes inspired from German, French, Spanish, and Northern Italian cuisine, all made from scratch.